If you're in the market for a new car and have your eye on the Kia Soul, you might be wondering if there are any other vehicles out there that can match its unique style and practicality. Well, the good news is that there are plenty of options to choose from! In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at 20 cars that are just as good as the Kia Soul, if not better. From subcompact crossovers to hatchbacks and even electric vehicles, there's something here for everyone. So, buckle up and get ready to explore some great rides!
But before we dive into the list, let's talk a bit about the Kia Soul itself. This funky little car has been turning heads since it first hit the market in 2009. With its boxy shape, bold colors, and spacious interior, it quickly became a favorite among drivers who wanted a fun and practical ride. Over the years, the Soul has received numerous updates and upgrades, making it an even more attractive choice for those in search of a reliable and affordable vehicle. So, what makes the Soul so special, and what other cars can compete with it? Let's find out!
| Competitors | Last Release | Fuel Economy |
|---|---|---|
| Kia Soul | 2022 | 28 city / 33 highway |
| Buick Encore | 2022 | 24 city / 32 highway |
| Buick Encore GX | 2023 | 29 city / 32 highway |
| Chevrolet Cruze Limited | 2016 | 28 city / 42 highway |
| Chevrolet Sonic | 2020 | 26 city / 34 highway |
| Chevrolet Spark | 2022 | 30 city / 38 highway |
| Chevrolet TrailBlazer | 2023 | 29 city / 33 highway |
| Chevrolet Trax | 2022 | 24 city / 32 highway |
| FIAT 500 | 2019 | 28 city / 33 highway |
| FIAT 500L | 2020 | 22 city / 30 highway |
| Ford EcoSport | 2022 | 23 city / 29 highway |
| Honda Element | 2011 | 20 city / 25 highway |
| Honda HR-V | 2023 | 26 city / 32 highway |
| Hyundai Accent | 2022 | 33 city / 41 highway |
| Hyundai Elantra | 2023 | 33 city / 42 highway |
| Hyundai Veloster | 2021 | 28 city / 34 highway |
| Hyundai Venue | 2022 | 29 city / 33 highway |
| Jeep Renegade | 2022 | 24 city / 32 highway |
| Kia Niro | 2022 | 53 city / 48 highway |
| Kia Seltos | 2022 | 29 city / 35 highway |
| MINI Hardtop | 2022 | 27 city / 37 highway |
Latest Release: 2022
MPG: 24 city / 32 highway
I recently had the chance to test drive the Buick Encore, and I have to say I was pleasantly surprised. The compact SUV had a lot of great features, like a comfortable ride and a quiet cabin.
It also had a lot of tech options, like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the engine felt a bit underpowered, and the cargo space was on the smaller side.
Overall, though, I think the Buick Encore is a solid choice for anyone in the market for a small SUV.
| Ground clearance | 6.2 in |
| Number of seats | 5 |
| Wheelbase | 100.6 in |
| GVWR | 4255 - 4384 lbs |
| Curb weight | 3237 - 3358 lbs |
| Towing capacity | 1000 lbs |
| Front legroom | 40.80 in |
| Rear legroom | 35.80 in |
| Front headroom | 40.00 in |
| Rear headroom | 52.00 in |
| Rear hip room | 50.00 in |
Latest Release: 2023
MPG: 29 city / 32 highway
The Buick Encore GX stands out with its sleek design and advanced safety features.
In my opinion, it offers a luxurious driving experience at an affordable price point.
| Ground clearance | 7.5 in |
| Number of seats | 5 |
| Wheelbase | 102.2 in |
| GVWR | 4211 - 4409 lbs |
| Towing capacity | 1000 lbs |
| Front legroom | 40.90 in |
| Rear legroom | 36.00 in |
| Front headroom | 40.00 in |
| Rear headroom | 52.00 in |
| Rear hip room | 48.00 in |
Latest Release: 2016
MSRP: $16,089
MPG: 28 city / 42 highway
Fuel economy and safety features are key decision-making factors for the Chevrolet Cruze Limited. It has an EPA-estimated 29 MPG city/38 MPG highway. It also comes equipped with features such as 10 airbags and a rearview camera.
The Cruze Limited offers a comfortable and spacious interior with ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. The trunk is also generously sized, providing plenty of room for luggage or groceries.
With its smooth ride, responsive handling, and quiet cabin, the Cruze Limited is a pleasure to drive. It also offers a range of available technology features, including a touch-screen infotainment system and smartphone integration.
| Horsepower / Torque | 138 hp / 148 lb.ft |
| Engine options | 1.4L I-4, 1.8L I-4 |
| Front legroom | 42.30 in |
| Rear legroom | 35.40 in |
| Front headroom | 39.30 in |
| Rear headroom | 53.00 in |
| Rear hip room | 52.40 in |
| Luggage volume | 15.40 cu.ft. |
| 0-60 times | 9.5 - 10.3 sec |
Latest Release: 2020
MPG: 26 city / 34 highway
The Chevrolet Sonic has a 1.4-liter turbocharged engine that delivers 138 horsepower and 148 lb-ft of torque, making it more powerful than many of its competitors in the subcompact car segment.
It also has a fuel economy rating of up to 34 mpg on the highway, which is competitive for its class.
| Horsepower / Torque | 138 hp / 148 lb.ft |
| Engine options | 1.4L I-4 |
| Front legroom | 41.80 in |
| Rear legroom | 34.60 in |
| Front headroom | 39.00 in |
| Rear headroom | 51.00 in |
| Rear hip room | 52.00 in |
| 0-60 times | 7.1 sec |
Latest Release: 2022
MPG: 30 city / 38 highway
The Chevrolet Spark is a compact car that offers excellent fuel efficiency and a low starting price.
However, it lacks in power and interior space compared to larger vehicles.
| Horsepower / Torque | 98 hp / 94 lb.ft |
| Engine options | 1.4L I-4 |
| Front legroom | 41.70 in |
| Rear legroom | 33.00 in |
| Front headroom | 39.00 in |
| Rear headroom | 48.00 in |
| Rear hip room | 48.00 in |
| 0-60 times | 10.3 - 10.7 sec |
Latest Release: 2023
MPG: 29 city / 33 highway
The Chevrolet TrailBlazer is a mid-size SUV that competes well against its rivals in terms of performance, fuel efficiency, and spacious cabin. With its powerful engine, smooth ride, and advanced safety features, the TrailBlazer is a solid choice for those seeking a versatile and reliable vehicle.
Whether you're driving on the highway or navigating through city streets, the TrailBlazer offers a comfortable and enjoyable ride. Its spacious interior provides plenty of room for passengers and cargo, making it an ideal choice for families and adventurers alike.
In addition to its impressive performance and spacious cabin, the TrailBlazer also offers a variety of advanced safety features. From its rearview camera to its blind spot monitoring system, the TrailBlazer is designed to keep you and your passengers safe on the road.
| Ground clearance | 7.5 - 8.0 in |
| Number of seats | 5 |
| Wheelbase | 103.9 in |
| GVWR | 4189 - 4409 lbs |
| Towing capacity | 1000 lbs |
| Front legroom | 40.90 in |
| Rear legroom | 39.40 in |
| Front headroom | 40.00 in |
| Rear headroom | 52.00 in |
| Rear hip room | 46.00 in |
Latest Release: 2022
MPG: 24 city / 32 highway
The Chevrolet Trax boasts a roomy and cozy interior that provides ample space for passengers and cargo. Additionally, it offers good fuel efficiency, making it a practical choice for long drives or commutes.
However, some drivers may find its engine to be underpowered, especially when trying to accelerate or merge onto highways. Additionally, its handling is not as sporty as some of its rivals, which may be a drawback for those who prioritize performance.
| Ground clearance | 6.2 in |
| Number of seats | 5 |
| Wheelbase | 100.6 in |
| GVWR | 4387 lbs |
| Curb weight | 3124 - 3292 lbs |
| Towing capacity | 1260 lbs |
| Front legroom | 40.80 in |
| Rear legroom | 35.70 in |
| Front headroom | 40.00 in |
| Rear headroom | 52.00 in |
| Rear hip room | 51.00 in |
Latest Release: 2019
MPG: 28 city / 33 highway
The FIAT 500 is a stylish and compact car that offers impressive fuel efficiency and agile handling.
Its retro-inspired design and customizable options make it a fun and unique choice for city driving.
| Horsepower / Torque | 160 hp / 170 lb.ft |
| Engine options | 1.4L I-4 |
| Front legroom | 40.70 in |
| Rear legroom | 31.70 in |
| Front headroom | 39.00 in |
| Rear headroom | 48.00 in |
| Rear hip room | 43.00 in |
| 0-60 times | 8.0 sec |
Latest Release: 2020
MPG: 22 city / 30 highway
The FIAT 500L is the perfect combination of style and practicality, offering ample space and advanced technology in a compact and fun-to-drive package.
With its unique design and customizable options, the 500L stands out on the road and allows drivers to express their individuality.
Inside, the 500L boasts a spacious and comfortable cabin with plenty of room for passengers and cargo, making it the ideal vehicle for both daily commutes and weekend adventures.
| Horsepower / Torque | 160 hp / 184 lb.ft |
| Engine options | 1.4L I-4 |
| Front legroom | 40.00 in |
| Rear legroom | 36.70 in |
| Front headroom | 41.00 in |
| Rear headroom | 55.00 in |
| Rear hip room | 49.00 in |
| 0-60 times | 8.0 sec |
Latest Release: 2022
MPG: 23 city / 29 highway
The Ford EcoSport is a small SUV that's big on personality, with quirky styling and a fun-to-drive demeanor that's perfect for city dwellers.
It may not be the most practical choice for families or long road trips, but it's certainly a unique and enjoyable option for those who prioritize style and agility.
| Ground clearance | no data |
| Number of seats | 5 |
| Wheelbase | 99.2 in |
| Curb weight | 3300 - 3360 lbs |
| Towing capacity | 2000 lbs |
| Front legroom | 42.90 in |
| Rear legroom | 36.70 in |
| Front headroom | 40.00 in |
| Rear headroom | 52.00 in |
| Rear hip room | 51.00 in |
Latest Release: 2011
MSRP: $19,388
MPG: 20 city / 25 highway
The Honda Element is known for its spacious cargo area and distinctive, adaptable style. However, it falls short in terms of fuel economy and overall performance.
Despite its drawbacks, the Element's boxy shape and easily configurable interior make it a popular choice for those who need to haul large items or transport pets. Its all-wheel drive option also makes it a practical choice for those who live in areas with inclement weather.
| Ground clearance | 6.9 in |
| Number of seats | 4 |
| Luggage volume | 25.10 cu.ft. |
| Wheelbase | 101.4 in |
| GVWR | 4450 lbs |
| Payload | 675 lbs |
| Curb weight | 3515 - 3641 lbs |
| Towing capacity | 1500 lbs |
| Front legroom | 41.00 in |
| Rear legroom | 39.10 in |
| Front headroom | 43.30 in |
| Rear headroom | 55.00 in |
| Rear hip room | 47.60 in |
Latest Release: 2023
MPG: 26 city / 32 highway
The Honda HR-V is a versatile and practical crossover that stands out with its spacious interior and excellent fuel economy, making it a top choice for those seeking a reliable and efficient daily driver.
Its sleek design and advanced safety features also set it apart from its competitors in the crowded crossover market.
| Ground clearance | no data |
| Number of seats | 5 |
| Wheelbase | 104.5 in |
| Towing capacity | 1760 lbs |
| Front legroom | 41.90 in |
| Rear legroom | 37.70 in |
| Front headroom | 38.00 in, 39.00 in |
| Rear hip room | 47.00 in |
Latest Release: 2022
MPG: 33 city / 41 highway
The Hyundai Accent is an affordable and efficient compact car with a spacious interior and impressive fuel economy. However, its acceleration can be sluggish, and the base model lacks some standard features found in competitors.
| Horsepower / Torque | 120 hp / 113 lb.ft |
| Engine options | 1.6L I-4 |
| Front legroom | 42.10 in |
| Rear legroom | 33.50 in |
| Front headroom | 39.00 in |
| Rear headroom | 52.00 in |
| Rear hip room | 51.00 in |
| 0-60 times | 8.5 sec |
Latest Release: 2023
MPG: 33 city / 42 highway
The sleek and stylish Hyundai Elantra packs a punch with its 147 horsepower engine and impressive fuel efficiency.
This makes it a top contender in the compact car market.
| Horsepower / Torque | 201 hp / 195 lb.ft |
| Engine options | 1.6L I-4, 2.0L I-4 |
| Front legroom | 42.30 in |
| Rear legroom | 38.00 in |
| Front headroom | 39.00 in, 41.00 in |
| Rear headroom | 53.00 in |
| Rear hip room | 51.00 in |
Latest Release: 2021
MPG: 28 city / 34 highway
The sporty little number from Hyundai is a real head-turner with its unique three-door design and sleek lines.
It's a blast to drive, with impressive fuel economy and nimble handling that makes it perfect for zipping around town.
| Horsepower / Torque | 201 hp / 195 lb.ft |
| Engine options | 1.6L I-4, 2.0L I-4 |
| Front legroom | 42.60 in |
| Rear legroom | 34.10 in |
| Front headroom | 37.00 in, 38.00 in |
| Rear headroom | 54.00 in |
| Rear hip room | 47.00 in |
| 0-60 times | 6.2 sec |
Latest Release: 2022
MPG: 29 city / 33 highway
The little Hyundai Venue may not be the fastest car on the road, but it's got style for days and is packed with features that make it a practical choice for city driving.
Just don't expect to win any drag races in it.
| Ground clearance | 6.7 in |
| Number of seats | 5 |
| Wheelbase | 99.2 in |
| GVWR | 3770 lbs |
| Curb weight | 2612 lbs |
| Towing capacity | 1700 - 1750 lbs |
| Front legroom | 41.30 in |
| Rear legroom | 34.30 in |
| Front headroom | 38.00 in, 39.00 in |
| Rear headroom | 52.00 in |
| Rear hip room | 44.00 in |
Latest Release: 2022
MPG: 24 city / 32 highway
Now the Jeep Renegade, it's a real head-turner. The design is bold and rugged, perfect for off-roading enthusiasts.
And let me tell you, this baby can handle anything you throw at it. It's got all the latest tech and safety features, making it a top contender in its class.
Overall, a solid choice for those who want a versatile and capable SUV.
| Ground clearance | 6.7 - 8.7 in |
| Number of seats | 5 |
| Wheelbase | 101.2 in |
| GVWR | 4277 - 4586 lbs |
| Curb weight | 3056 - 3532 lbs |
| Towing capacity | 2000 lbs |
| Front legroom | 41.20 in |
| Rear legroom | 35.10 in |
| Front headroom | 41.00 in |
| Rear headroom | 53.00 in |
| Rear hip room | 52.00 in |
Latest Release: 2022
MPG: 53 city / 48 highway
The Kia Niro is a stylish and efficient crossover that boasts impressive fuel economy and a spacious interior.
This makes it the perfect choice for eco-conscious drivers who value comfort and practicality.
| Ground clearance | 6.3 in |
| Number of seats | 5 |
| Wheelbase | 106.3 in |
| GVWR | 4079 - 4255 lbs |
| Payload | 849 lbs |
| Curb weight | 3117 - 3234 lbs |
| Towing capacity | 850 lbs |
| Front legroom | 41.70 in |
| Rear legroom | 37.40 in |
| Front headroom | 40.00 in |
| Rear headroom | 54.00 in |
| Rear hip room | 48.00 in |
Latest Release: 2022
MPG: 29 city / 35 highway
The Kia Seltos is a stylish and practical crossover that offers a comfortable ride, advanced safety features, and impressive technology at an affordable price point.
With its bold design, spacious interior, and responsive handling, the Seltos is a great choice for anyone looking for a versatile and reliable vehicle.
| Ground clearance | 7.3 in |
| Number of seats | 5 |
| Wheelbase | 103.5 in |
| Curb weight | 2948 - 3317 lbs |
| Towing capacity | 2800 lbs |
| Front legroom | 41.40 in |
| Rear legroom | 38.00 in |
| Front headroom | 39.00 in, 40.00 in |
| Rear headroom | 54.00 in |
| Rear hip room | 53.00 in |
Latest Release: 2022
MPG: 27 city / 37 highway
| Horsepower / Torque | 228 hp / 235 lb.ft |
| Engine options | 1.5L I-3, 2.0L I-4 |
| Front legroom | 41.40 in |
| Rear legroom | 30.80 in, 32.30 in |
| Front headroom | 40.00 in |
| 0-60 times | 5.9 - 7.7 sec |
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